Names and Formulas of Alkanes:
A large number of compounds is possible because the covalent bond between the carbon atoms (C-C) is very strong, this allows carbon atoms to form long, stable chains.
Alkanes are a class of hydrocarbons in which all atoms are connected by single bonds.
They are,
(i) commonly used as fuels
(ii) contain carbons connected in a row or a continuous chain
(iii) have the general formula CnH2n+2
The IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) system is used for naming
alkanes. Alkanes with five or more carbons in a chain are named using prefixes and, in the ending, ane.
In a condensed structural formula, each carbon atom and its attached hydrogen atoms are written as a group.
Alkanes with more than three carbons are written in a zigzag pattern instead of a straight line.
All ways of expressing alkanes,
Alkanes are nonpolar and less dense than water. Alkanes with,
i)1-4 carbon atoms are gases
ii) 5-8 carbon atoms are liquids at room temperature
iii) 9-17 carbon atoms are liquids such as kerosene and jet fuel
iv) 18 or more carbon atoms are waxy solids
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